Tesla unveils the Model Y SUV

Does the picture above look like a typical SUV to you? Tesla has taken a slightly more ‘compacted’ look to the latest in its EV series, the Model Y.

After much anticipation, Tesla unveiled the Model Y last week – a vehicle that is described as an all-electric, mid-size SUV that can seat seven adults – and the vehicle has a glass roof.

In just 3.5 seconds it can go from 0-96 kilometres per hour and has a top speed of up to 241km/h, thanks to high-efficiency powertrain and ultra-responsive motors.

Tesla says the Model Y Standard Battery will have around 370 kilometres of range, while the Model Y Long Range will be able to travel up to 482 kilometres on a single charge.

Its aerodynamic design and leading battery technology also make it highly-efficient in terms of energy usage, meaning you can achieve better range with less energy than other EVs on the market,” says Tesla.

“Model Y is also compatible with our current Supercharger network of more than 12,000 Superchargers in 36 countries, as well as our new V3 Superchargers which can charge at rates up to 1,000 miles (1609 kilometres) per hour."

“Inside, Model Y's panoramic glass roof and high seating creates a feeling of spaciousness and offers an expansive view from every seat in the vehicle. The front trunk and split-folding second-row seats provide a total of 1.9 cubic metres of storage space.”

The Model Y features app-based entry and exit, much like the Model 3. The vehicle connects to a smartphone and also features a 15-inch touchscreen interface for all car controls.

Some SUVs tent to have a high centre of gravity, however Tesla says it designed the Model Y with a low centre of gravity, a rigid body structure and large crumple zones. According to Tesla, the Model Y is designed to be the safest mid-size SUV.

While no New Zealand pricing and availability has been announced, here’s what Tesla announced for the US market:

The Model Y Performance, Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, and Dual-motor All-Wheel Drives are expected to ship in the US from Autumn 2020 (US season).

Be prepared to fork out US$39,000 for the ‘Standard Range’ variant, which will start shipping in early 2021.